Florence-born, Oxford-reared and London-based, Olivia Chaney’s original musical steer may have come from a love for English folk, but her early releases and live shows showcased an artist keen even then to add other stirrings to that mix.
Her debut album is a beautiful job of work, a record where all that early potential flourishes and blossoms on a sweep of tender, graceful tunes.
Whether it's the wide range of covers, including a beautiful version of Alasdair Roberts' Waxwing, or her own material (especially King's Horses and the title track), Chaney displays savvy, strong vocal poise throughout.
What’s clear is that her approach to the music of the past is full of zest and vigour and she’s a performer well capable of adding radical touches to such material. A hugely rewarding listen.
